CNA

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides health and personal care support exclusively to students receiving special education services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The CNA is contracted through an outside agency and works under the supervision of the Special Education Department to ensure that students’ medical and personal care needs are met so they can safely access and participate in their educational programs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide daily health and personal care support for students identified through an IEP.
• Assist students with activities of daily living (ADLs), including toileting, feeding, mobility, and hygiene.
• Follow care routines and protocols documented in the student’s IEP and Special Education Department guidance.
• Assist students with medical devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, feeding tubes, oxygen, or catheters.
• Monitor students during the school day and report health or safety concerns promptly to designated Special Education staff.
• Document care and services provided in accordance with district procedures.
• Ensure student safety during transitions (classrooms, therapies, cafeteria, playground, and buses).
• Respond appropriately to emergencies using district and Special Education protocols.
• Support teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers in maintaining student participation and independence within the school setting.
• Attend required training provided by the Special Education Department related to student care, health, and safety.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic health care procedures, pediatric care, and medical terminology.
• Understanding of confidentiality requirements (FERPA and HIPAA).
• Ability to follow directions from Special Education staff and adhere to IEP-driven routines.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Physical ability to lift, transfer, and reposition students and equipment.
• Dependable and able to respond calmly in emergency situations.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in the state of Texas (or applicable state).
• Current CPR and First Aid certification required.
• Experience working with children, preferably in special education or pediatric care, strongly preferred.

Working Conditions

• School campus settings, including classrooms, hallways, buses, cafeterias, and playgrounds.
• Frequent standing, lifting, bending, and assisting with student mobility.
• Exposure to bodily fluids and health-related conditions, with protective equipment provided.